Which of the following is NOT a core component of the ICN Code of Ethics?

BTSC Staff Nurse 31 July-2025

Nursing Foundation

Easy

Appeared in: BTSC Staff Nurse 31 July-2025

Explanation

The ICN Code of Ethics is structured around four principal elements that provide a framework for ethical nursing practice globally.
The option 'Nurses and employers' is not one of these four foundational elements, making it the correct answer to the 'NOT' question.
The four core components are: Nurses and people, Nurses and practice, Nurses and the profession, and Nurses and co-workers (or 'Nurses and global health' in the 2021 revision).

Option A: This is a core component of the ICN Code. It establishes the nurse's primary responsibility to the individuals, families, and communities they serve.
Option C: This is a core component of the ICN Code. It outlines the nurse's role in upholding the integrity of the nursing profession and contributing to its development.
Option D: This is a core component of the ICN Code. It emphasizes the nurse's personal responsibility for their actions, accountability, and the need for continuous professional development.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Core components of the International Council of Nurses (ICN) Code of Ethics as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
The ICN Code provides a universal framework for nurses to make ethical decisions in their daily practice, ensuring patient safety and upholding the integrity of the profession.
It guides nurses in navigating complex situations, such as conflicts between patient needs, employer policies, and professional duties.
What if a nurse's employer's policy conflicts with the ethical duty to a patient? The ICN code guides the nurse to prioritize the patient's well-being and advocate for them, even if it means challenging the employer's policy through appropriate channels.

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the negative keyword 'NOT' in the question. This indicates you are looking for the option that is an exception or does not belong.
Recall the fundamental components of the subject, in this case, the four principal elements of the ICN Code of Ethics.
Systematically evaluate each option against the known components: 'Nurses and people', 'Nurses and practice', 'Nurses and the profession', and 'Nurses and co-workers'.
Options A, C, and D are all established core components of the code.
Option B, 'Nurses and employers', is not listed as a principal element in the ICN Code's structure.
Conclude that the option that is NOT a core component is the correct answer.

Concept Tested & Keywords

Concept Tested: Core components of the International Council of Nurses (ICN) Code of Ethics.
Stem keywords: ICN Code of Ethics, core component
Lead-in keywords: NOT
Negative lead-in flag: The question asks to identify the option that is NOT a core component of the ICN Code of Ethics.

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E6 Principles and Practice of NURSING Management Leadership for BSc NursingJogindra Vati — Subpart C (pp 679-1002 of 1017) pp. 260-262, 270-272